England's all-round dominance secures 26-run T20 win over India
England secured a 26-run victory over India in the second women’s T20 International at Bristol on Saturday. The hosts defended a total of 168 for 5, limiting India to 142 for 9 in their 20 overs. England batted first and posted 168 for 5 in their allotted overs. Freya Kemp played a key role, remaining unbeaten on 39 while also contributing with the ball later. India’s Shree Charani was the standout bowler, claiming 3 wickets for just 25 runs.
India chased a target of 169 but fell short, finishing on 142 for 9. Yastika Bhatia top-scored with 33, while Smriti Mandhana added 32. England’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Lauren Bell and Charlie Dean each taking 2. Kemp’s earlier batting effort was followed by 2 more wickets, sealing the win for England. The result gives England a 1-0 lead in the series after the first match was abandoned due to rain. Their bowlers and Kemp’s all-round performance proved decisive in the low-scoring contest. India will now look to bounce back in the remaining fixtures.